Highlights for the week of Nov 26-Dec 2, 2018. As always, events are regularly added and updated, so check back for more, and details for all of the events are in the notes section of the calendar. Remember, if you need more info, use the links and contact info for the event—sometimes details change before we can catch them.

Mon, Nov 26

7-8:30 pm: Radio Theater performance in the Friends Room at the Columbia Public Library. For teens and adults. Before television, families gathered around the radio to hear thrilling stories brought to life without the help of visual aids — only dialogue and sound effects. Experience that old magic with a live performance of a classic radio program in cooperation with Maplewood Barn Radio Theater. The show will include the pieces “The Voice on the Wire” and “Fibber’s Closet.”

Tue, Nov 27

5:30-7 pm: The DiverCity BASH (Business and Social Hour) next to Gamestop in Columbia Mall. Supporting its mission to spotlight central Missouri diversity, KOPN community radio introduces this monthly business networking event that focuses on supporting and connecting small and minority-owned businesses. This is an opportunity for local business professionals to meet in a social setting to discuss ideas to better their business and expand their business opportunities, get to know other people, have a lot of fun! Free food and drink provided by local businesses, including The Wine Cellar & Bistro and Al and Lena’s Catering & Togo Plate Services. There will also be music, so bring your dancing shoes and lots of business cards.

Wed, Nov 28

2-4 pm: Movie – Faces Places (2017) [PG (for brief nude images and thematic elements)] [1:30] at 148 Mizzou North. Continuing the Museum of Art and Archaeology Ad Hoc Film Series, this movie is a documentary featuring two artists (she’s 80; he’s 30) who collaborate to put large murals on walls in the French countryside.

5:30-7:30 pm: Climate Action and Adaptation Planning (CAAP) Community Forum at City Hall. City staff and the Mayor’s Task Force for Climate Action and Adaptation Planning members will review and discuss some of the actions being considered, and gather feedback from the community on how to invest in and prioritize these actions.
5:30 pm – Presentations in the Council Chambers from Mayor’s Task Force, City staff and project consultants regarding progress to date
6:00 pm – Breakout groups based on sector areas / areas of interest: Built Environment, Energy and Waste, Natural Resources, and Health, Safety and Well-being. Speak one-on-one and provide feedback for actions being considered under each sector.

Thu, Nov 29

4:30-6:30 pm: COMO Living Magazine – Launch Party: Arts & Culture Issue in the Montminy Gallery, Walters-Boone Co Historical Museum and Galleries. This event includes the reception and opening for the What is Columbia? Photography Show.

Magic Tree Festival from 5-8 pm on Thu, Nov 29, in the Village of Cherry Hill.

5-8 pm: Magic Tree Festival at Focus On Health Chiropractic in the Village of Cherry Hill. Lots of activities for kids including Santa, face painting, balloon animals, and crafts.

5:30-7 pm: 53rd Christmas Tree Lighting at Shelter Insurance. Festivities will begin at 5:30 pm and the tree will be lit around 6:00 pm. There will also be holiday music by the West Middle School Concert Choir, goodies for the kids, and music by the West Middle School 8th Grade Concert Band.

Fri, Nov 30

3-4 pm: Geology Seminar – On the Eve of Cambrian Explosion by Dr. Shuhai Xiao, Virginia Tech, in 108 Geology Building at the University of Missouri. The sudden appearance of abundant and diverse animal fossils in the geological record about 540 million years ago is colloquially known as the Cambrian explosion. This remarkable evolutionary event was first highlighted by Charles Darwin as a scientific puzzle. To explore what led to the Cambrian explosion, scientists have investigated the Ediacaran Period (635-540 million years ago) in order to better understand the environmental and biological evolution at the transition. The speaker will showcase recent progress in Ediacaran paleobiological and paleoenvironmental studies, discuss the challenges in phylogenetic interpretations, and examine the potential roles of oxygenation in early animal evolution on the eve of the Cambrian explosion.

Sat, Dec 1

1-3 pm: Book Launch Party – Iconic Restaurants of Columbia at the Boone County History and Culture Center. Kerri Linder, as well as some of the featured owners of restaurants, will be sharing stories about some of Columbia’s favorite iconic restaurants dating back to the taverns along the Boonslick Trail. A unique opportunity to interact with several of the restaurant owners.

Sun, Dec 2

4-6:30 pm: The Columbia Community Band – Sounds of the Season Concert in the Auditorium at Hickman High School. There will be a reception with cookies and punch immediately following the concert.

Do you know of any other fun, free events going on this week? Please share the details in the comments, so that everyone can benefit!

Have a wonderful week!

Thank you for using FreeColumbiaMo.com!
See all the events, and details, by viewing the calendar in the right column.

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This post may contain affiliated links. Accordingly, we may receive compensation—please turn off ad blockers before clicking on links, so that we can get credit. Compensation does not result in increased costs or influence our recommendations, and may even offer you better deals. Any compensation we receive goes to support continuation of FreeColumbiaMo.com. Thank you!

Highlights for the week of Nov 19-25, 2018. As always, events are regularly added and updated, so check back for more, and details for all of the events are in the notes section of the calendar. Remember, if you need more info, use the links and contact info for the event—sometimes details change before we can catch them.

Mon, Nov 19

7-9 pm: Auditions for Peter and the Starcatcher in the PACE (Performing Arts in Children’s Education) Building. Columbia Entertainment Company continues the auditions on Nov 20. This play is based on the novel by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson, adapted by Rick Elice. Participants do not need to attend both nights. There are 12 to 13 main roles in the show, and those actors will also play other characters and set pieces. A few ensemble members may also be cast, bringing the planned total number of cast members to 12-16.

Wed, Nov 21

Argentine Tango dance classes, Wednesdays at DrinKraft.

7-9 pm: Argentine Tango Class and Practica at DrinKraft. COMO Tango, a collective of Argentine Tango dancers and teachers who are passionate about growing a community of Tango dancers in Columbia, offer this weekly class.

Thu, Nov 22 – Thanksgiving Day

Most events are rescheduled for the holiday. We recommend checking any remaining events on the calendar to see if they have been rescheduled or cancelled.

Fri, Nov 23

11:30 am-12:30 pm: Mizzou Football Concert Series – Shiloh Country Band will perform between Hearnes and Faurot Field before the game.

Sat, Nov 24

Shiloh Country Band will play at the Mizzou Football Concert Series before the game on Fri, Nov 23.

9 am-12 pm: Home Depot Kids Workshop: Gingerbread Man Ornament. Kids, ages 5-12, with their parents can drop in and build the kit, while supplies last.

Sun, Nov 25

2-4 pm: The weekly Community Drum Circle meets at Good Nature. Drumming and dancing in Good Nature’s large basement space. They welcome all drummers and dancers.

Do you know of any other fun, free events going on this week? Please share the details in the comments, so that everyone can benefit!

Have a wonderful week!

Thank you for using FreeColumbiaMo.com!
See all the events, and details, by viewing the calendar in the right column.

Share this post using the icons below.

This post may contain affiliated links. Accordingly, we may receive compensation—please turn off ad blockers before clicking on links, so that we can get credit. Compensation does not result in increased costs or influence our recommendations, and may even offer you better deals. Any compensation we receive goes to support continuation of FreeColumbiaMo.com. Thank you!

Highlights for the week of Nov 12-18, 2018. As always, events are regularly added and updated, so check back for more, and details for all of the events are in the notes section of the calendar. Remember, if you need more info, use the links and contact info for the event—sometimes details change before we can catch them.

Mon, Nov 12 — Veterans Day (observed)

5-7 pm: Breastfeeding Class at the Columbia Public Library. Whether this is your first baby or not, being prepared is important. Join other parents for this class, which is held the second Monday of every month.

Tue, Nov 13

7-8:30 pm (6 pm social hour): Big Muddy Speaker Series – After the Flush: Columbia’s Wastewater Treatment System at Les Bourgeois Bistro. Every day each one of us does it. Very few of us know exactly what happens after we do it. What happens after we flush? Michele Woolbright, Boone County Stormwater Educator, will describe the wastewater treatment process for Columbia, Missouri.

7-9 pm: Movie – Merchants of Doubt (2015) [PG-13] [1:36] in 113 Arts & Science Building at the University of Missouri. “Merchants of Doubt” takes audiences on a satirically comedic, yet illuminating ride into the heart of conjuring American spin, lifting the curtain on a secretive group of highly charismatic, silver- tongued pundits-for-hire who present themselves in the media as scientific authorities – yet have the contrary aim of spreading maximum confusion about well-studied public threats ranging from toxic chemicals to pharmaceuticals to climate change.

Wed, Nov 14

6:30-8 pm: Center Aisle Cinema – Brimstone & Glory (2017) [NR] [1:07] in the Friends Room at the Columbia Public Library. The National Pyrotechnic Festival in Tultepec, Mexico, is unlike any other event in the world. For the three-quarters of Tultepec residents who work in pyrotechnics, the festival anchors their way of life. Plunging headlong into the fire, this visually stunning film honors the spirit of Tultepec’s community and celebrates celebration itself.

7-8:30 pm: Mizzou Geology Club – Youth Night in 101 Geology Building at the University of Missouri. Students (ages 7-11) get a hands on learning experience through presentations presented by Geology Club Undergrads and Grads. The topics range from volcanoes to earthquakes, fossils to caves, and more.

Thu, Nov 15

10 am-2 pm: Medicare Open Enrollment Assistance in the Studio at the Columbia Public Library. Every Thursday until December 6 (except Thanksgiving) and every Saturday until December 1, trained Medicare counselors will be available to help you compare and enroll in 2019 Medicare Prescription Drug Plans. Call 800-390-3330 for an appointment. Walk-ins are welcome, too.

10 am-4 pm: Health Insurance Marketplace Open Enrollment Assistance in the Studio at the Columbia Public Library. Every Thursday until December 13 (except Thanksgiving) and every Saturday until December 15, trained staff will be on hand to help you review eligibility, compare options, and enroll in 2019 Health Insurance Marketplace plans. No appointment necessary.

Sat, Nov 17

10 am-2:30 pm: Smith Creek Hike, just outside of Columbia. For ages 6+. Another fun hiking event from the Sierra Club – Osage Group. This hike will be moderately difficult through beautiful terrain, including 5+ miles over hill and dale, some cross-country travel as well as trail walking, and two shallow creek crossings. See the calendar event for all details, including registration info. A signed liability waiver is required.

6-8 pm: Building the Movement for Mutual Aid workshop – part 1/2 in 132 Middlebush Hall at the University of Missouri. Mutual Aid Disaster Relief: A 2-part workshop. Nov 17: An accessible and entertaining introductory presentation, “Protectors v. Profiteers: Communities in Resistance to Disaster Capitalism”. Nov 18: The second part is a deeper, participatory workshop for affinity groups and individuals who are ready to get involved, “Giving Our Best, Ready For The Worst: Community Organizing as Disaster Preparedness”.

6-8:30 pm: Movie – The Greatest Showman (2017) [PG] [1:43] at the Armory. Inspired by the imagination of P.T. Barnum, The Greatest Showman is an original musical that celebrates the birth of show business and tells of a visionary who created a spectacle that became a worldwide sensation.

Sun, Nov 18

10 am-5 pm: 9th Fall Into Art Festival at Parkade Center. This event is also on Sat, Nov 17. Fall Into Art blends art, fine craft, music, and education to provide a weekend destination for the whole family. The show is made up of 55 carefully chosen artisans from a broad spectrum of media. Live music throughout provides a festive atmosphere.

Do you know of any other fun, free events going on this week? Please share the details in the comments, so that everyone can benefit!

Have a wonderful week!

Thank you for using FreeColumbiaMo.com!
See all the events, and details, by viewing the calendar in the right column.

Share this post using the icons below.

This post may contain affiliated links. Accordingly, we may receive compensation—please turn off ad blockers before clicking on links, so that we can get credit. Compensation does not result in increased costs or influence our recommendations, and may even offer you better deals. Any compensation we receive goes to support continuation of FreeColumbiaMo.com. Thank you!

We are grateful for and proud of our veterans. Sunday (actual) and Monday (observed) are Veterans Day. Listed here are the free benefits for veterans that we are aware of in Columbia. If you know of other related free events, please add them with details in the comments below or share with the social media post.

Avenue of Flags, Centralia Cemetery, Centralia, Missouri

Free Haircut for Veterans — Sun, Nov 11, 10 am-4 pm

At Great Clips, veterans and current military personnel receive a free haircut or a free haircut card that can be redeemed until December 31, 2018. Additionally, non-military customers who purchase a service at participating Great Clips on November 11, receive a free haircut card to give to a veteran.
2901 W Broadway Ste 107; 573-446-4323
2703 E Broadway #228; 573-874-1415
1305 Grindstone Pkwy #103; 573-442-9799

IHOP
Open 24 hours
In honor of Veterans Day, IHOP is giving out free stacks of Red, White & Blue pancakes on the day after Veterans Day, on Monday, November 12. These are buttermilk pancakes with glazed strawberries, blueberry compote, and a whipped topping.
51 Conley Rd; 573-442-9242

LongHorn Steakhouse
11 am-10 pm
LongHorn Steakhouse is giving away free appetizers and desserts to veterans and active service members who stop in to Longhorn Steakhouse on Nov. 11, plus eligible customers also get 10% off their table’s total check.
31 Conley Rd; 573-874-3000

Olive Garden
11 am-10 pm
Olive Garden is having a Veterans Day free meal for all active-duty military and military veterans on Nov. 11. The meal includes an entree from a special Veterans Day menu, plus unlimited soup or salad and garlic breadsticks.
1300 I-70 Dr SW; 573-443-2082

Ruby Tuesday
11 am-10 pm
Veterans, active duty, and reserve service men and women can visit Ruby Tuesday on Nov. 11th to get a free appetizer valued up to $10.
2010 Bernadette Dr; 573-446-8212

Starbucks
Starbucks is honoring veterans, active duty service members, and their spouses, by offering a free tall (12 fl oz) hot brewed coffee on Nov. 11. Instead of getting to Starbucks on Veterans Day and finding out that your location isn’t giving out free coffee, you may want to call your Starbucks ahead of time just to be sure that they are.
Many stores in Columbia

TGI Fridays
TGI Fridays will be having a free meal for all veterans and active-duty military on Nov 11 (9 am-11 pm) and Nov. 12 (11 am-11 pm).
3030 I-70 Dr SE; 573-817-2440

White Castle
Open 24 hours
White Castle is giving out a free Breakfast Combo or Castle Combo Meal (numbers 1-6) to any veteran or other military member who comes in on Nov. 11 or Nov. 12.
3401 Clark Ln; 573-886-7829

Thank you, veterans! Does anyone know of any other free Veterans Day freebies? Please share the details in the comments.

Thank you for using FreeColumbiaMo.com!
See all the events, and details, by viewing the calendar in the right column.

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This post may contain affiliated links. Accordingly, we may receive compensation—please turn off ad blockers before clicking on links, so that we can get credit. Compensation does not result in increased costs or influence our recommendations, and may even offer you better deals. Any compensation we receive goes to support continuation of FreeColumbiaMo.com. Thank you!

Highlights for the week of Nov 5-11, 2018. As always, events are regularly added and updated, so check back for more, and details for all of the events are in the notes section of the calendar. Remember, if you need more info, use the links and contact info for the event—sometimes details change before we can catch them.

Mon, Nov 5

6-6:45 pm: Mid-MO Magic Show at the Columbia Public Library. Gerry Tritz took up juggling and magic 20 years ago. Now, he travels across Mid-Missouri amusing and amazing the young and young-at-heart with his unique blend of magic, juggling, and comedy.

Tue, Nov 6

5-7 pm: Major! (2015) [NR-documentary] [1:35] Part of Trans Empowerment and Awareness Week. This film, “explores the life and campaigns of Miss Major Griffin-Gracy, a formerly incarcerated Black transgender elder and activist who has been fighting for the rights of trans women of color for over 40 years.”

Wed, Nov 7

6:30-10:30 pm: School of Metaphysics Open House and new class – Applied Metaphysics. Join like-minded people for a class exploring ways to enjoy Well Being. Open House at 6:30. New class begins at 7:30. Find out what metaphysics is about and how it can help you create health, wealth and security.

Thu, Nov 8

7-9 pm: Diwali – The Festival of Lights in Stotler Lounge, Memorial Union North at the University of Missouri. Hosted by Mizzou South Asian Students Association and Mizzou Asian American Association. Their biggest event of the semester featuring an evening of free food from India’s House and Taj Mahal, a performance by Mizzou Masti, crafts, photo booth, music, dance, and more.

Fri, Nov 9

12-1 pm: Veterans Day Wreath Laying Ceremony at Memorial Union North, University of Missouri. This event, which recognizes and honors University of Missouri veterans, begins with a ceremony at the Memorial Tower which includes a guest speaker and the annual laying of the wreath tradition. Reception following in the Bengal Lair.

Sat, Nov 10

11:30 am-4 pm: 5th STEM Expo and Planetarium Show at the Columbia Public Schools Planetarium in Rock Bridge High School. The Expo has exhibits and displays celebrating the study of science, engineering, technology, and math. The planetarium show will be To Worlds Beyond – Journey through the Solar System (showtimes: 11:45, 12:35, 1:25, 2:15, 3:05). Note: The planetarium is between directors and they do not have monthly public shows right now, so this is a great time to go!

Sun, Nov 11 — Veterans Day

Note: While this is the actual Veterans Day, it is observed on Mon, Nov 12, 2018.

12:30-1:30 pm: Mizzou School of Music Gypsy Jazz Trio Concert (violin, bass, guitar) in the European Gallery of the Museum of Art and Archaeology, second floor, Mizzou North.

2-5 pm: The English Patient (1996) [R] [2:42] in 148 Mizzou North. This film is being s

hown in honor of Veterans Day.

Do you know of any other fun, free events going on this week? Please share the details in the comments, so that everyone can benefit!

Have a wonderful week!

Thank you for using FreeColumbiaMo.com!
See all the events, and details, by viewing the calendar in the right column.

Share this post using the icons below.

This post may contain affiliated links. Accordingly, we may receive compensation—please turn off ad blockers before clicking on links, so that we can get credit. Compensation does not result in increased costs or influence our recommendations, and may even offer you better deals. Any compensation we receive goes to support continuation of FreeColumbiaMo.com. Thank you!

Disclosure: All event listings on the calendar, in information pages, and in blog posts are provided without compensation. This site is only supported by advertisements, sponsors, and donors, who provide for the continued existence of this service. Thank you for stopping by!